Los Angeles Clippers

June 29, 2001|Capsules by Staff Writer Omar Kelly

The draft: Last year's draft proved that the Clippers have no problem investing time and energy into young players, but coach Alvin Gentry wants to get just a tad older. This is why the trade for power forward Elton Brand, who is all of 22, was made, sending the No. 2 pick, Tyson Chandler, and veteran swingman Brian Skinner to the Bulls.

What's next: Skinner, who has an impressive rebounds per minute average, has talent, but the Clippers have too many small forwards. Chandler has potential to become an All-Star, but Brand, the 1999 No. 1 pick, is already a player capable of 20-point, 10-rebound nights. Plus, he comes at a cheap price considering he is signed for two seasons.